With noses buried in their devices, more and more people are getting sucked down one rabbit hole after another as they seek their next high on social media. The youth are ageing faster as they lose track of time. Their minds are always switched on, and most cannot communicate effectively one-on-one or reflect on complex issues. These are some of the negative effects of excessive use of social media and everything digital.
Amisa Rashid, a neuropsychologist and the Executive Director of the Nivishe Foundation and Lydia KM, a Kenyan podcaster and content creator, delve into the importance of digital detoxing, each providing unique insights and perspectives.
“Always being on social media means that you do not give your brain enough time to reset, to restore information. When you rest, your brain organises itself, restores all information, and the neurons grow. So, if you are not able to do that due to always being active on a device, then the brain, just like a computer, will start hanging. That is why it is now harder for people to have a good memory or brain function,” explains Amisa.
This is why taking a break from the numerous social media apps and spending time away from screens is increasingly being deemed beneficial for one’s mental and physical health.
Digital detoxing, or digital decluttering, is a period in which one intentionally either reduces the amount of time spent online or even opts to disconnect completely from using tech devices.
Given how much of our lives and work are interconnected with our devices, a complete detox, though ideal, may be impossible. The goal, therefore, is to set boundaries and to ensure the devices work for you rather than being enslaved by them.
This is a challenge that Lydia KM grapples with constantly as a content creator, “Mental health is being affected by social media. I am in an interesting place because I am sending this message about what we need to do to take care of our mental health while I make a living on a platform that is negatively affecting people’s mental health. But I do try my best to find ways to send the message that overconsumption is not healthy. Personally, I am working on doing less and more intentional social media.”
‘Touch grass’ has become a catchphrase, ironically, online. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines it as “to participate in normal activities in the real world, especially as opposed to online experiences and interactions.”
Heading into the new year, a rethink on social media use and digital exposure is timely. Perhaps you can consider ‘touching grass’ as a resolution for 2025.
